Albuquerque: Open-Air Trolley City Tour & Old Town Stops

Summary

Ride Albuquerque’s open-air trolley past Old Town, Route 66, Nob Hill and more with stories and laughs along the way

You’ll ride Albuquerque’s only open-air trolley past Old Town Plaza and Route 66 while a local guide shares quirky stories and film locations. Expect laughs, quick stops at landmarks like Nob Hill and UNM, plus real city sounds all around you. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve seen more than just sights—you’ve felt them too.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to roll through Albuquerque with the sun on your face and someone else handling all the directions? That’s pretty much how our day started—climbing onto this bright open-air trolley near Old Town. The seats were a little chilly at first (April mornings here are no joke), but I didn’t mind because our guide, Carlos, was already cracking jokes about green chile and movie sets before we even left the curb. There was this faint smell of roasting coffee drifting from somewhere nearby, and for a second I forgot I was supposed to be paying attention to the city tour part.

Carlos pointed out places I’d never have noticed on my own—like the American International Rattlesnake Museum (yes, that’s real), and this odd little castle hiding behind some trees. We cruised down Route 66 while he played old radio jingles over the speakers. I think half our group started humming along without realizing. The wind whipped my hair around in Nob Hill, which is apparently where you go if you want to eat well or see neon signs that look straight out of the ‘50s. At one point we passed a beach in the middle of the desert—don’t ask me how that works—and Carlos just shrugged like, “Yeah, that’s Albuquerque.”

The best part? People waved at us everywhere. Kids on bikes, shop owners outside Sawmill Market, even a guy in a Lobo t-shirt who did this howl thing when we passed UNM (Carlos joined in; it was loud). It felt like being part of something local for once instead of just watching from behind glass. The tour covers a lot—Old Town Plaza, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, sports stadiums I can’t pronounce—but honestly it’s those random moments that stick with me. Like trying to guess which Breaking Bad scene was filmed at which spot (I got maybe one right).

I still think about that last stretch back toward Old Town as golden light hit those adobe walls—there’s something about seeing a place with someone who really loves it. If you’re looking for a day trip in Albuquerque that actually feels alive (and includes pickup if you need it), this is worth your afternoon. Just bring a jacket if it’s early season—the desert air doesn’t mess around.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Albuquerque city highlights

• Hop on open-air trolley
• Enjoy narrated multimedia tour
• Discover uses of red and green chile
• Hear University of New Mexico Lobo call
• See film locations of Breaking Bad
• Visit Old Town Plaza and Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
• Pass Museum Row and Route 66
• Drive through Nob Hill food spots
• Explore UNM campus history
• View Rail Yards and Sawmill Market
• See El Vado Motel and sports stadiums

Top questions

How long does the ABQ Trolley City Tour last?

The tour duration isn’t specified but typically covers multiple city highlights within one outing.

Is there hotel pickup included for this Albuquerque trolley tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests board near Old Town Albuquerque.

What are some main stops on the Best of ABQ City Tour?

Main stops include Old Town Plaza, Route 66, Nob Hill, UNM campus, Sawmill Market, and Museum Row.

Does the tour run year-round?

No, ABQ Trolley Co.’s city tours operate from April through October.

Are infants or small children allowed on the trolley tour?

Yes, infants can ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

Is there live narration during the trolley ride?

Yes, each tour features fully-narrated live commentary by a local guide.

What happens if there aren’t enough people booked?

If fewer than six guests book for a date, tours may be cancelled or rescheduled due to minimum attendance requirements.

Is public transportation available near the departure point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby for easy access to boarding location.

What’s included

Your day includes an open-air ride aboard Albuquerque’s only city trolley with live narration from a local guide as you pass landmarks like Old Town Plaza and Route 66; infants can join in strollers or on laps; service animals are welcome; public transport is close by; suitable for all fitness levels so everyone can enjoy—from April through October only.